Japanese Hand-Carved Polychrome Ivory Sculpture Tower

Item Details

An impressive late 19th – early 20th century Japanese hand-carved ivory sculpture tower with polychrome hand-decorated details and scrimshaw calligraphy depicting an elaborately carved mountainscape. This labor intensive work of art is detailed with Japanese pine trees, numerous figurals depicting scholars with scrolls, sages holding prayer beads, bamboo leaves, rock formations, workers carrying two Imperial figures on a cloth, pagoda temples, figures meditating in lotus position, dogs, birds, a flag mounted to a pole that looks as if it’s blowing in the wind, a figure writing calligraphy on the side of a large rock formation near the top and more. The sculpture rests on a hand-carved wooden plinth with carved scrolls and finials along the gate in equally impressive detail with footed base. This one-of-a-kind piece is an incredible representation of Japanese handcraftsmanship, a lost art form and may only be truly appreciated by viewing it in person at the preview.

• International law prohibits the exportation of ivory, the winning bidder must, therefore, be a United States resident. Please note that Everything But The House regularly sells items of historical significance and, from time to time, some of these items might be considered controversial in nature. It is the role of Everything But The House to offer these items for sale as sensitively as possible, with equal respect to all. Furthermore, please know that all items sold on our website are legally obtained and offered for sale in compliance with state and federal regulations.

Condition

- although there is one tower on the top that has been broken off. The plinth appears to have been repaired in places and there is glue residue present. Preview for personal assessment.

Dimensions

Item #

14CIN197-591